Senior R&D Quality Control Technician

About Rigetti

Rigetti Computing is building the world’s most powerful computers to help solve humanity’s most pressing problems. Our quantum computing technology has the potential to transform nearly every industry over the coming decades. As a public company with deep roots in research and engineering, we are scaling our hardware capabilities and building the systems needed to deliver reliable, high-performance quantum processors.

Role Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Quality Control Technician to support incoming inspection, non-conformance resolution, and parts disposition across our hardware programs. This role is heavily execution-focused: measuring parts, evaluating conformance, and working with engineering to resolve issues on components ranging from high-tolerance machined hardware to PCBAs and RF/microwave assemblies used in cryogenic environments.

You'll work within a QMS framework defined by Quality Engineering, applying inspection plans and acceptance criteria consistently and flagging gaps or improvement opportunities as they come up. The ideal candidate is meticulous, comfortable with precision measurement equipment, and enjoys digging into a nonconforming part to figure out what happened and what to do about it.

What You’ll Be Doing

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Perform Incoming Quality Control (IQC) inspection on a daily basis, including

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• Defining and executing inspection plans and sampling per defined acceptance criteria
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• Measuring and documenting results using CMM, calipers, micrometers, optical comparators, and other precision tools
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• Flagging discrepancies and escalating as needed
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Inspect high-precision components across multiple hardware types

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• Tight-tolerance machined parts
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PCBAs

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• RF/microwave hardware
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Execute Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)

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• Document findings with clear, thorough records
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• Support root cause investigation
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• Track through to resolution and closure
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• Support material review board (MRB) activities — gather data and recommend disposition (use-as-is, rework, scrap) for engineering and supply chain sign-off
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• Assist with Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) follow-through, including verifying implementation and effectiveness
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• Maintain accurate, organized inspection records and traceability documentation
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• Support supplier-related quality issues by preparing data packages, measurement evidence, and inspection reports
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• Help track incoming yield, defect trends, and other quality metrics
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• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by performing first-article inspections and validating new inspection methods
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• Continuously look for ways to improve inspection efficiency, tooling, and documentation
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• Work with data systems including Arena, CAD drawings, Excel, and internal databases

What You Bring

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• 3+ years of experience in quality control, inspection, or metrology in hardware or advanced manufacturing environments
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• Hands-on experience with precision measurement tools (CMM, calipers, micrometers, optical comparators, etc.)
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• Working knowledge of precision machined parts, PCBAs, and/or RF hardware
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• Solid understanding of GD&T and how to read/interpret engineering drawings and technical specs
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• Familiarity with NCR/MRB processes and basic root cause tools (5 Whys, Fishbone)
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• Strong attention to detail and documentation discipline
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• Comfortable working independently at the bench while collaborating closely with engineering on disposition decisions
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• Willingness to learn and grow into broader quality responsibilities over time

Preferred Qualifications

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• Machinist background (CNC machining, tolerancing, or shop floor experience) is a strong plus
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• Experience inspecting RF/microwave components or hardware used in cryogenic or vacuum environments
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• Familiarity with PCBA inspection (IPC-A-610 or similar standards)
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• Working knowledge of ANSI/ASQ or ISO 9001 quality systems
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• Experience with CMM (coordinate measuring machine) or other advanced metrology equipment
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• Exposure to ERP/QMS software for logging inspections and dispositions (e.g., NetSuite, Arena, MasterControl)
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• Experience working in a startup, R&D, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environment
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• Prior experience in aerospace, semiconductor, or scientific instrumentation industries where tight tolerances and traceability are critical